Not Quite As The Japanese Did It...

I've recently been enveloped in a spirit of creativity; and I'm spiraling deeper into the depths of my dormant poetic nature. My muse? Life's hopeful and tragic temperament! At first glance, haikus appear to be simple and, frankly, elementary. Having been withdrawn from poetry for quite some time, I, Mr. bIdEuX, chose this particular form to ease back into the scene. However, I experienced more challenge (and fun) creating these initial four than expected...mostly because of the added rule I've implemented with haikus:

Original Rules

• Use of three (or fewer) lines of no more than 17 total syllables (the usual format is three lines with five syllables on the first and third line, and seven on the second);
• Use of a season word (kigo);
• Use of a cut or caesura (sometimes indicated by a punctuation mark) to contrast and compare, implicitly, two events, images, or situations.

bIdEuX's Rule

• Metaphorical usage is a must (metaphors are absent in most haikus)

All of my haikus will relate to my life in some way, regardless of how odd or insignificant. I've decided that one haiku out of each posting will include an explanation...just so you can get a closer peek into my life. Without further ado:

Dear love departs
beautiful flaring eyes weep
Peace, Winter begins!


(The haiku above symbolizes the emotional turmoil senorita Crystal and her family are experiencing after the lost of a cherished loved one. Her grandmother passed away around 1:30-2:30 a.m. est December 25, 2007. She is in Phoenix, Arizona now tending to her mother and funeral arrangements. All will be well boo!)

Lustful heart clouded
simmering Helios rays
brighten--truth revealed.


Barren grassless fields
breeds purpose; roots birthed bearing
scope undoubtedly.


Travel earnestly
amongst arid twigs and leaves;
Phoenix awakens!


This is the first post of three. Expect one on Wednesday and Thursday to finish up task #50. bIdEuX out!